If you’re looking for design changes, bring a magnifying glass. There are new bits at both ends of this updated Juke but they’re nothing major. So, for the facelifted Nissan Juke, the bigger news comes with an introduction of a personalisation programme, allowing owners to customise their cars with coloured plastic trim inside and out. In Europe at least, so far.
There is also a bundle of updated engines, including a new turbocharged petrol option, the DIG-T 115. This one, on test though, is fitted with the familiar 1.6-litre that we’re well accustomed to in the Middle East, with a punchy and force-fed 188bhp, and also unfortunately another feature we’re well accustomed to, the continuously variable transmission.
As before, you’ll either love the Juke or hate it. The looks are probably the most controversial of any mainstream car, but it doesn’t seem to have affected sales since you’ll see these things zooming around Dubai on a daily basis. In fact, our videographer was convinced enough by wheels’ original review two years ago to go out and buy one. And with the new interior customisation options, there’s the chance to make each Juke look more or less unique — a big selling point and potentially a reason for existing owners to upgrade.
Because of its polarising looks, its image has a little edge to it that buyers like, and even though it’s now a common sight, many people still see it as a cool choice.
Front-wheel-drive versions like this one benefit from 40 per cent more boot space, thanks to ditching the spare wheel well and adding a second luggage compartment.
Overall, the amount of stuff you can fit into a Juke is amazing — yet another reason our videographer chose it as he’s constantly lugging camera equipment around — but since it’s across two levels, you do need to put some thought into your packing in order to get the most out of the space. Also, really mull over whether you actually need the (unnecessary) all-wheel-drive model.
The cabin is pleasantly spacious, and four average-height adults should be comfortable until the road gets bumpy, at which point the guys at the back might find their heads within regular bashing distance of the roof.
What’s more, carrying four people is bad news for driving enjoyment, because this is a relatively lightweight car whose dynamics are noticeably affected as you load it up. Having said that though, this turbocharged four-cylinder is very pleasant under normal circumstances, cruising smoothly and growling under acceleration.
There’s plenty of kit to enjoy on the move, from driving mode selection to sat-nav and cruise control. Some of the switchgear feels a bit cheap, though, which is a bigger issue the higher up the range you go, especially since this car isn’t all that inexpensive to begin with.
The entry-level Juke looks like good value, but isn’t, because it’s too sparse, and by making sure the higher models have lots of tempting tech, the more expensive choices are the ones you should go for. Like most high-volume cars, this one pulls buyers in from all walks of life and with different personality types.
Juke buyers will definitely walk into dealerships already in love with its looks before weighing the purchase against their needs for size, space and practicality; areas in which the Juke does surprisingly well. Young families are prime candidates, as are older buyers looking to downsize to something funky.
The available space is an impressive value statement too. However, coming into 2015 and despite its mild update, this car does have some stiff competition from newer rivals.
